KSRTC's new Volvo sleeper buses arrive in Thiruvananthapuram, employees to be recruited as driver cum conductors; will take strict actions against drivers who cause accidents

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: New sleeper buses have arrived for SWIFT, a new company set up by KSRTC for long-distance buses. This is the first time the corporation has purchased sleeper buses. The body is made by Volvo itself on the Volvo chassis. The first batch of buses has arrived at the SWIFT headquarters at Anayara, Thiruvananthapuram. These buses will operate under the name of 'Gajaraja'. Up to 40 passengers can lie down and travel in a bus. The name 'Gajaraja' is derived from the KSRTC's nickname 'Aanavandi'.

KSRTC will also receive Ashok Leyland's 20 semi-sleeper and 72 air suspension non-AC buses in two months. New buses are coming for the first time since 100 buses were purchased in 2017. The buses are being procured from Rs 50 crore provided by the government. 116 buses will soon be part of SWIFT. Employees will be appointed to SWIFT on a contract basis. They will be appointed as diver cum conductors. Passengers will be provided with blankets and water. KSRTC said that the list of drivers for the appointment will be published within two days.

The authorities said that strict action will be taken against drivers who cause accidents. The authorities have also decided to dismiss those who cause accidents by negligent driving.